How to become a radiographer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You'll need to do an approved degree or postgraduate qualification, which allows you to register with the Health and Care Professions Council. You'll need registration to work.
Before you apply for a course, you'll need to think about whether you want to work in diagnostic radiography or therapeutic radiography. Visiting a radiography department at your local hospital may help you decide.
If you're a health professional or a graduate with a relevant first degree, you may be able to take a fast-track postgraduate qualification over 2 years.
You can also train as a radiographer in the armed forces. You can find out more at:
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 3 A levels, or equivalent, including at least 1 science
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a diagnostic or therapeutic radiographer degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
Work
You can start as a radiography assistant and work your way up to assistant practitioner. At this level, your employer may give you the opportunity to work and study part time for a degree and a professional qualification to become a radiographer.
More Information
Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Further information
You can find out more about a career in radiography from Health Careers and the The Society of Radiographers.